FCS teams eye upset opportunities against Power Four in 2026 matchups

CBS Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 10, 2026, 3:59 PM

Last updated Aug 10, 2026

FCS teams eye upset opportunities against Power Four in 2026 matchups
Summary

As the 2026 college football season approaches, FCS teams are looking to break a 125-game losing streak against Power Four schools. The last FCS upset occurred in 2023 when Sacramento State defeated Stanford. The disparity between FBS and FCS continues to grow, attributed largely to the transfer portal and NIL, which have made it challenging for FCS programs to retain their top talent. Six key matchups this season present potential opportunities for FCS teams, including South Dakota State at Northwestern and Youngstown State at Kentucky. Expect heightened scrutiny as fans watch for any shifts in this long-standing trend.

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Key Details
  • Power conference teams have won 125 straight against FCS opponents.
  • Sacramento State's 2023 win over Stanford marks the last FCS upset.
  • FBS teams hold a.991 winning percentage against FCS since 2022.
  • Upcoming matchups include South Dakota State at Northwestern and Youngstown State at Kentucky.
  • The transfer portal and NIL have widened the talent gap.
Latest Updates
  • 3:59 PMCBS SportsAre FCS vs. Power Four upsets extinct? Six potential shockers in 2026 that could end the drought
What they're saying
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The gap between the FBS and FCS is widening, but anything can happen on a college football Saturday

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